Induction of Labor: A Review.

Induction of labor is a common obstetric procedure, and is indicated when the benefits to either mother or fetus outweigh those of continuing the pregnancy. Cervical assessment (Bishop score) at the time of initiation is the best independent predictor of induction success. Although multiple agents are available for labor induction, the most commonly used methods are mechanical methods, prostaglandins and oxytocin. Indication for induction of labor, clinical presentation, safety, cost and patient preference may be used in selecting the method of induction. The goal of labor induction must always be to ensure the best possible outcome for mother and newborn.